Addressing the growing public outrage over crimes against women, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Friday asked his party leaders and cadre to aggressively tackle the issue.

He wanted the party to adopt a strict stance against the prevalent mentality of a
section of society that treats women shoddily.

“When there are incidents such as the Delhi gangrape case, there is bound to be a reaction from thinking people in society, who will come out on the streets to protest. As a party, we have always been at the forefront of social issues and we must take an aggressive position on crimes against women and oppose this mindset that treats women in such a perverse manner,” said Pawar when addressing his party cadre in Mumbai after inaugurating the renovated party office here.

The NCP chief said all NCP-controlled corporations, councils, public sector undertakings and departments should proactively address gender discrimination and harassment issues. A separate programme for safety of women must be drafted in all bodies controlled by the party, he added.

For instance, Pawar said in state transport buses, steps should be taken to ensure there is no sexual harassment such as a helpline to lodge complaints, separate seating for women and clean toilets at stands.

“I am glad that home minister RR Patil has sent a clear signal to the police force and even sent proposal to the Centre to amend laws, but I think all other ministers should also follow suit in departments such as tribal development or higher and technical education," said Pawar.